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Fulham made a last-minute attempt to sign Bright Osayi-Samuel from Fenerbahce before the close of the transfer window, but the Turkish giants rejected the bid, keeping the Nigerian international in Istanbul—at least for now, Soccernet.football reports.
Osayi-Samuel has been a regular under Jose Mourinho this season, featuring in 24 matches across all competitions. The versatile right-back, who can also operate further up the pitch, has contributed one assist in 1,558 minutes of play.
With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, speculation around his future had intensified.
Fulham saw an opportunity to bring him back to England, and submit3d an official bid for him on Monday, February 3rd, according to Hurriyet.
However, Fenerbahce chose to hold onto him despite reports suggesting he could be removed from the club’s Turkish league squad to make space for new signings.
The Super Eagles star left Queens Park Rangers for Turkey in 2021 and has since established himself as a key figure in Fenerbahce’s squad. Across his 163 appearances for the club, he has registered seven goals and 14 assists while competing in both the Turkish Super Lig and European competitions.
Internationally, Osayi-Samuel has earned 18 caps for Nigeria since making his debut in November 2022. He is expected to be part of the Super Eagles squad for the Africa Cup of Nations later this year.
For Fulham, currently ninth in the Premier League after a 2-1 win over Newcastle, missing out on Osayi-Samuel is a setback in their bid to strengthen their defensive options.
However, with the defender now able to discuss a pre-contract agreement with other clubs, a move back to England in the summer remains a strong possibility.
